My name is Yulia Vlasik. I am 25 years old, a young and kind woman, and I have a degree in — nutrition engineering. I have recently been battling oropharyngeal cancer.
It all started in December 2017 of this year when I felt my voice becoming hoarse and developed a slight cough. At first, I took throat lozenges, hoping it was just the seasonal flu. After the symptoms didn't go away, I went to an otolaryngologist, who told me I suspected I had a tumor. These were terrifying words for me, a young woman, and for my loved ones. I endured it all and decided to fight because I knew I could! Doctors in Ukraine couldn't help me because the tumor was in an inconvenient location, so they advised me to go to Israel for a biopsy. In Israel, I had a biopsy under general anesthesia and was prescribed treatment. We spent more than 10 thousand dollars just on all the tests, analyses, and biopsies in the operating room — this is what we were able to raise among family and friends. I need to undergo 3 chemotherapy, as well as radiation therapy — 35 days. The radiation costs — 68400 dollars, and each course of chemotherapy — 3500$ (required 3 course). Everything will depend on how quickly the tumor responds to treatment. Israeli doctors give me great hope and can help me completely recover; I just need the funds!
My mother — Lyudmila Vlasik is very worried about me; she doesn't know where to find the money, because the treatment is very expensive, and I — am her only daughter. I know I can overcome this disease and recover; I'm just beginning my life diary! The difficulty is that the tumor is in a very difficult location — the laryngopharynx, and surgery, according to the doctors, — is not an option. The tumor's size is also a factor — about 5 cm. It needs to be reduced with chemotherapy, and then we can move on to radiation. The good news is that I have a good chance of recovery because the tumor is localized and there are no metastases.
I'll tell you about myself: I'm a vegetarian, I love animals, and I often feed the cats and dogs in my yard. I love flowers and nature. I also enjoy swimming in the sea in the summer and leading an active lifestyle. Before my illness, I often rode my bike, went to the movies with friends, and visited my grandmother in the village for Christmas. Now I have less energy, but my inner spirit is strong! I know I can make it through this journey, but I really need your support.
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